To read is to improve the quality of one’s life.

Taking inspiration from this idea, READ aims to improve the lives of impoverished & marginalised communities.

Vison statement:

The vision of READ is to create a just society practicing democratic values of equity, participation, inclusion and self-reliance through education.

Mission statement:

Our mission is to empower the impoverished and marginalized sector of society by strengthening community-based organizations and instituting capacity building measures.

Origin of READ

READ came into existence in 1994. It was started by Dr. READ Selvam, who grew up in Andimadam and was inspired to start an organization that would help and empower the local people in his community.

It started as a voluntary organization (registered under the Societies Registration Act 27 of 1975) by a group of committed social workers who had been in the field of social work for a decade. It has since been registered 1999 under Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. revised (FCRA) 2020 by The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India under Darpan TN/2009/0007774 and under Income Tax Act (12AA and 80G).

READ’S Objectives:

• Empower those who have been marginalised towards an independent life through community mobilisation efforts
• Promote gender consciousness and equity in society
• Empower the disabled to lead a dignified social life through community mobilisation efforts and rehabilitation strategies
• Provide care and support for those impacted by HIV/AIDS, including elderly and orphaned children
• Promote awareness and provide comprehensive health care to prevent HIV/AIDS, disability and other contagious diseases
• Promote and protect the environment through bio-cultivation and sustainable management of natural resources
• Increase the educational status of impoverished and marginalised children
• Develop strategies to allow women and the impoverished to create a sustainable livelihood that would make them independent
• Build the capacity of self-help leaders and community organisations to ensure active participation and independent functioning